2002 E46 coolant, steering pump, steering rack

[ndsolo]

Dear Sifu's,Selamat Hari Raya to all and hope everyone had a good holiday.#1)My expansion tank cracked on the way up to Genting and had it changed last Friday. I was told not to use BMW coolant as it will clog up the radiator in the long run. This is because it has anti freeze elements. Is that true? Don't feel quite safe filling the radioator with just water as it will lead to rust. Any other options? #2)Also noticed a minor leak coming from the power steering pump and was told that a new pump is app RM2k. Can I service it, change seals, etc instead of waiting for it to kaput and change for a new pump?#3)Also a minor leak from the steering column. Was advised to let it kaput and change for a new set. I have read about steering column repair kit but a bit confused. Can I change the fluid and seal the leak? Why should I wait for it to completely dry kaput instead of repairing it now?Thanks very much and all the best.

 

[ndsolo]

There was a discussion regarding coolant from this forum back in 2007 with a lot of different views. Apologies for asking again

 

[zeedo]

For item 2,it is usually the hose that leaks. There are to hoses connected to the reservoir,one is suction to pump and another to the cooling coil. Check that first, the cost is RM130 for suction hose and RM230 for the other hose.

 

[teighlour]

My steering rack is about time to kaput too when i took it for regular service and the mechanic checked through my car. I am also driving a 2002 e46 318i. But he said can still tahan. What if it kaput, what will happen? I am also curious about Bro ndsolo's question if it can be repaired or beyond repair and have to replace the whole piece?

 

[ndsolo]

Thank bro zeedo. Will check the hoses during my next visit.